Appropriations [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a discussion about parking issues faced by a member before shifting focus to House Bill 1002, presented by Senator Cook and Representative Elena Schonkweiler. This bill introduces performance-based rate-making (PBR) into Indiana law, moving the regulatory focus from utility spending approval to utility performance evaluation. It proposes multi-year rate plans for utilities, ensuring predictability for customers and utilities while maintaining oversight by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). The bill includes performance incentive metrics (PIMs) related to affordability and service restoration, with penalties for poor performance and incentives for better performance, as well as consumer protections for low-income customers. Senator Goddard expressed support for the bill, highlighting affordability and suggesting considerations regarding tax exemptions for data centers and utility taxes. Senator Pohl proposed an amendment to extend standard payment plans for utility users from six to twelve months, which ultimately failed with a vote of 2-7. Another amendment by Senator Pohl requiring electricity suppliers to present rate information in cents on customer-facing reports also failed with a similar vote. The committee then discussed House Bill 1056, presented by Representative Meltzer, which aims to consolidate and clarify penalties for resisting law enforcement. This bill passed unanimously with a vote of 9-0. House Bill 1176 was next, with an amendment proposed by Senator Rogers and Representative Teschke to align language regarding innovation network agreements and school funding formulas. A technical amendment proposed by Senator Cordova failed with a vote of 2-9. The meeting also included discussions on expediting the process for schools to convert to charter schools, with an amendment aimed at removing the requirement that only failing schools could convert, which also failed. A health agency bill aimed at modernizing public health reporting was discussed, including provisions for streamlining data reporting and enhancing communication regarding child and infant mortality rates. An accepted technical amendment led to the bill passing unanimously. House Bill 1277, focusing on long-term care initiatives, was discussed, addressing issues within the Pathways Program, including waitlists and management inefficiencies. Supporters projected significant savings for the state and emphasized the importance of better care options for vulnerable adults. The bill was held for further discussion and potential amendments. The meeting also covered issues related to managed care entities (MCEs) and their impact on Medicare and Medicaid services, highlighting significant financial concerns and inefficiencies. A proposed bill aims to save money by implementing individual cost limits for those on Medicaid waivers and establishing a separate assisted living waiver. Testimonies from stakeholders supported the need for reform to improve care delivery and reduce costs. A personal testimony shared the challenges faced by families on the Medicaid waiver waitlist, emphasizing the emotional toll and the need for better solutions. Secretary Rube expressed opposition to the bill, citing concerns about its potential impact on existing programs and the lack of anticipated savings. The committee discussed the complexities of Medicaid funding and care provision, with frustrations expressed over the growing waitlist for the Pathways waiver. Senators questioned the effectiveness of managed care entities and the historical context of decisions leading to current challenges. There was a call for transparency regarding financial analyses and a suggestion to consider insourcing management of the program. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the management and oversight of a state program, with concerns about potential privatization and the need for proper regulation. Senator Brown defended the oversight role of the budget agency and criticized the previous administration's approach to managed care. The decision was made to hold the bill for further consideration, with plans to revisit it in the following week for an amended vote.